Choosing the right sublimation printer for t-shirts can make custom apparel projects faster, cleaner, and more predictable. The models in this roundup range from compact desktop printers to bundles that include ink, transfer paper, blanks, and heat-press equipment.
Use the comparison and buying advice below to match print size, workflow, ownership costs, and included accessories to your experience level and production goals.
Best 10 Sublimation Printer for T Shirts Picks for 2026
Best Compact Epson
- PrecisionCore printhead for detailed transfers
- Includes genuine Epson sublimation ink
- 150-sheet covered auto-feed tray
Best For: Compact apparel and craft work on Windows or macOS
Best Connected Epson Bundle
- PrecisionCore output with Epson ink
- 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Small customization businesses using computer or mobile workflows
Best Complete Starter Kit
- Includes printer, CMYK ink, paper, and blanks
- Adds heat-resistant tape and design resources
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity
Best For: Beginners assembling a complete sublimation workspace
Professional Pick
- Vivid 1200 x 1200 dpi CMYK output
- Includes ink and sublimation paper
- Wi-Fi and guided design software
Best For: Small businesses and serious home creators
Reliable Starter Bundle
- Genuine Epson ink included
- PrecisionCore printhead for detailed output
- Includes paper, tape, and starter supplies
Best For: Hobbyists and small businesses wanting an official Epson setup
Budget All-in-One
Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer
- Cartridge-free refillable ink tanks
- Built-in scanner and copier
- Wireless printing with high stated resolution
Best For: Beginners and home users needing an all-in-one setup
Premium Desktop Pick
- Vivid CMYK sublimation output
- Compact 8.5 x 14-inch desktop format
- Includes software, ink, paper, and support
Best For: Small businesses and home-based apparel creators
Complete Starter Bundle
- Includes printer and 8-in-1 heat press
- Supplies include ink, paper, blanks, and tape
- Works with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Windows, Mac, and app
Best For: Beginners wanting a ready-to-use crafting setup
Wide-Format Workhorse
- Prints designs up to 13 x 19 inches
- Includes scanner, copier, ADF, and touchscreen
- High-capacity easy-fill sublimation ink tanks
Best For: Larger apparel projects and multifunction home studios
Best Compact Epson – SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for t shirts when you want sharp, consistent transfers in a compact footprint. Its PrecisionCore printhead, included genuine Epson ink, and 150-sheet covered auto-feed tray make it well suited to apparel, mugs, mousepads, and other small-format projects.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses that need an 8.5-inch sublimation printer with Epson support.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead with Precision Droplet Control for detailed output.
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and manufacturer support.
- 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray helps reduce paper handling.
- Compact design supports Windows and macOS setups.
Cons:
- Maximum media width is limited to 8.5 inches.
- Mobile-device connection is not supported according to the supplied notes.
- Heat press and other transfer equipment are not included.
Choose this F170 when print quality, compact sizing, and official Epson documentation matter more than larger shirt-format transfers. Its narrow media limit is the main consideration for apparel makers who want oversized designs.
Best App-Friendly Option – Brother SP-1
The Brother SP-1 is an approachable sublimation printer for t shirts and other personalized projects, with Wi-Fi connectivity and an Artspira workflow. You can create or import designs, print them on sublimation paper, and use a separately purchased heat press to transfer them onto suitable blanks.
Best For: Beginners and crafters who want app-based design access for shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, and hats.
Pros:
- Artspira provides more than 100 sublimation designs and image tools.
- Includes Brother genuine CMYK sublimation ink and a starter paper pack.
- Wi-Fi connectivity supports a convenient creative workflow.
- Designed for vibrant, durable transfers on polyester or coated items.
Cons:
- A heat press is required and must be purchased separately.
- The listed maximum media size is 8.5 by 11 inches.
- Product is intended for sale in the United States at 120 volts.
The SP-1 makes sense if you value guided design tools and a straightforward Brother ecosystem. It is especially convenient for small custom orders, though users should budget for a heat press and confirm compatible blanks.
Best Connected Epson Bundle – SureColor F170 Bundle
This Epson SureColor F170 bundle is a strong sublimation printer for t shirts when you want detailed output, efficient paper feeding, and flexible computer or mobile connectivity. It includes Epson sublimation ink, and its closed 150-sheet tray helps keep transfer paper cleaner between projects.
Best For: Customization businesses and makers who print from Windows, macOS, Android, or iOS devices.
Pros:
- PrecisionCore printhead supports clear, high-quality images.
- Includes a full set of Epson sublimation ink, a guide, and power cable.
- 150-sheet dust-resistant auto-feed tray supports longer print runs.
- Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connectivity offer flexible setup options.
Cons:
- 8.5-inch maximum media width limits larger shirt designs.
- Direct email printing and camera connections are not supported.
- The supplied listing specifies a one-year warranty, which differs from some Epson listings.
This bundle is a practical choice for a small personalization operation that wants Epson print quality plus network flexibility. Verify the seller, included warranty, and exact bundle contents before ordering, since the supplied listing is from a third-party brand.
Best Complete Starter Kit – Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle
The Brother SP-1 Starter Bundle is a convenient sublimation printer for t shirts if you want more than the printer alone. Along with the full CMYK ink set, it includes transfer paper, 50 sublimation blanks, heat-resistant tape, designs, and Artspira access for getting started with apparel and gift projects.
Best For: New crafters and small businesses that want a ready-to-use package for shirts, mugs, tumblers, bags, and coasters.
Pros:
- Includes the Brother SP-1 printer and full 47 ml CMYK ink set.
- Bundle supplies include 160 transfer sheets, 50 blanks, and heat-resistant tape.
- Artspira access and 500 design cards provide starting design resources.
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet support Windows, Mac, and app-based workflows.
Cons:
- The bundle does not list a heat press as included.
- 600 by 600 dpi resolution is lower than the listed Epson F170 resolution.
- Included blanks and supplies may not match every project or shirt size.
If you are building a sublimation setup from scratch, this package can reduce the number of separate purchases needed. Its included consumables add value, but confirm the blank types and remember that a heat press is still necessary for shirt transfers.
Professional Pick – Sawgrass SG500
The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong sublimation printer for t shirts when vivid, consistent color and reliable software matter. Its compact desktop design supports standard projects up to 8.5 x 14 inches, while the bypass tray accommodates longer prints up to 8.5 x 51 inches.
Best For: Small businesses, home-based entrepreneurs, and creators who want professional-grade color output.
Pros:
- Includes SubliJet UHD CMYK inks and sublimation paper.
- Offers 1200 x 1200 dpi color resolution for detailed prints.
- Wi-Fi connectivity, print-head auto-maintenance, and MySawgrass design software simplify regular use.
- Supports media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, with longer prints possible through the bypass tray.
Cons:
- Its standard media size is smaller than some larger-format sublimation printers.
- The printer is designed for 110/120V US and North American outlets.
The SG500 stands out for users who prioritize controlled color, guided software, and a dependable workflow over the lowest initial cost. It is particularly well suited to growing apparel and personalized-product businesses.
Reliable Starter Bundle – Epson SureColor F170
The Epson SureColor F170 is a practical sublimation printer for t shirts and other transfer projects, pairing PrecisionCore printhead technology with an included starter kit. It comes with OEM Epson inks, paper in two sizes, thermal tape, and a 150-sheet enclosed auto-feed tray.
Best For: Hobbyists, crafters, and small businesses seeking an official Epson bundle with straightforward setup.
Pros:
- Includes a full set of genuine Epson sublimation inks and a manufacturer warranty.
- Precision Droplet Control is designed to support clear, detailed images.
- The bundle includes 8.5 x 11 and 8.5 x 14 inch paper plus thermal tape.
- Closed, dust-resistant paper storage and auto-stop ink bottles make routine handling easier.
Cons:
- Mobile-device connection is not supported.
- Its maximum media width is 8.5 inches, limiting larger transfer designs.
- The listed print speed is relatively modest at about one color page per minute.
The F170 is appealing when genuine consumables, included accessories, and an enclosed paper tray are more important than high production speed. Its compact footprint also suits dedicated home workspaces.
Budget All-in-One – Pinckney Super-Tank Sublimation Printer
The Pinckney Super-Tank is a flexible sublimation printer for t shirts that also scans and copies. Its cartridge-free tank system includes substantial quantities of sublimation ink, supports wireless printing, and accepts common sheet sizes plus media up to 8.5 x 47.2 inches.
Best For: Beginners and home users who want low-maintenance ink filling with scanning and copying included.
Pros:
- High-capacity tanks hold 127 mL of black ink and 85 mL of each color.
- Auto-fill nozzles are designed for cleaner, syringe-free refills.
- Includes a built-in scanner and copier alongside sublimation printing.
- Supports Wi-Fi, multiple paper sizes, and resolutions up to 5760 x 1440 dpi.
Cons:
- The converted ET-2800/ET-2803 platform has a 100-sheet capacity.
- Users may need nozzle checks and print-head alignment if quality issues occur.
- The supplied guidance notes that prints can look dull on paper before heat transfer.
This model offers useful everyday versatility for creators who need more than a dedicated printer. Its refillable tanks and included ink are convenient, though routine maintenance may be part of achieving consistent transfer results.
Premium Desktop Pick – Sawgrass SG500
The Sawgrass SG500 is a strong choice if you want a dependable sublimation printer for t shirts with vibrant color output and a compact desktop footprint. It supports media up to 8.5 x 14 inches, with its bypass tray extending print length for select projects.
Best For: Home-based entrepreneurs and small businesses that prioritize print quality, guided software, and long-term support.
Pros:
- Includes SubliJet UHD CMYK ink cartridges and sublimation paper to get started.
- Offers vivid, high-definition output for t-shirts, drinkware, signage, and promotional products.
- Includes Wi-Fi, automatic print-head maintenance, MySawgrass, and Sawgrass Print Utility.
- Backed by a two-year warranty plus lifetime education and support.
Cons:
- The standard maximum media size is 8.5 x 14 inches.
- It is a print-only machine without scanning or copying functions.
The SG500 is a polished option for creators who want an easy-to-manage sublimation workflow rather than a multifunction printer. Its compact size and software support make it especially practical for growing apparel businesses.
Complete Starter Bundle – Brother SP-1 8-in-1 Kit
The Brother SP-1 bundle is an all-in-one starting point for anyone building a sublimation printer for t shirts setup. Along with the printer, it includes an 8-in-1 swing-away press, inks, transfer paper, blanks, tape, and design resources for a broad range of projects.
Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, and small-business owners who want printing and pressing equipment in one package.
Pros:
- Includes a 15 x 15-inch 8-in-1 swing-away heat press with mug, plate, hat, and tumbler attachments.
- Provides CMYK ink, 160 sheets of sublimation paper, blanks, heat-resistant tape, and design cards.
- Supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity and works with Windows, Mac, and the Artspira app.
- Prints on media up to legal size, or 8.5 x 14 inches.
Cons:
- The printer’s listed color resolution is 600 x 600 dpi.
- The large bundle may take more space than a printer-only setup.
This package stands out for convenience: you can print transfers and press them onto apparel, mugs, tumblers, and other blanks without purchasing the major accessories separately. It is a practical way to launch a small crafting operation quickly.
Wide-Format Workhorse – Pinckney ET-15000 Bundle
The Pinckney ET-15000 bundle is worth considering when a sublimation printer for t shirts also needs to handle larger designs and everyday office tasks. Its wide-format output reaches 13 x 19 inches, while the built-in scanner, copier, ADF, and high-capacity tanks add versatility.
Best For: Creators who need wide-format apparel transfers, larger project capacity, and multifunction printing.
Pros:
- Supports wide-format printing up to 13 x 19 inches and borderless printing up to 11 x 17 inches.
- Includes high-capacity sublimation ink bottles with easy-fill nozzles.
- Combines printing, scanning, and copying with an ADF and 2.7-inch color touchscreen.
- Offers a 250-sheet front tray and wireless connectivity.
Cons:
- Its 20 x 14 x 10-inch body and 22-pound weight require more workspace.
- The bundle has a one-year limited warranty.
- It is a converted all-in-one setup, so it may require more setup attention than a dedicated sublimation printer.
For larger t-shirt graphics and mixed home-office use, the Pinckney offers capabilities that compact sublimation printers do not. Choose it when wide media support and multifunction features matter more than a small footprint.
How We Picked the Best Sublimation Printer for T Shirts
We focused on the features that matter most when printing designs for polyester shirts and other sublimation-ready products: print quality, supported media size, ink system, setup requirements, software, reliability, and overall value. We also considered whether each listing includes useful extras such as transfer paper, thermal tape, blanks, or a heat press.
Because bundles can vary substantially, verify the exact contents, warranty, ink capacity, and compatible supplies before ordering. A printer-only package may be the better value for shoppers who already own a heat press, while an all-in-one kit can simplify a first project.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Prioritize | Good Match |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | Simple setup and included supplies | Starter bundles |
| Home apparel projects | Compact footprint and manageable running costs | Epson or Brother desktop models |
| Small businesses | Consistent output and dependable ink availability | Sawgrass or Epson systems |
| Complete workstations | Printer, press, blanks, and paper in one package | Heat-press bundles |
Key Buying Factors for a Sublimation Printer for T-Shirts
Print Size and Shirt Compatibility
Check the maximum paper size before buying. Compact printers commonly support letter-size transfers, which work well for many chest designs but may limit oversized graphics. Remember that sublimation works best on white or light-colored polyester garments; it does not print opaque white ink.
Ink, Paper, and Ongoing Costs
Compare the included ink volume, replacement price, and availability of approved paper. Use ink designed for the specific printer and follow the manufacturer’s conversion or warranty guidance. Cheap supplies can create color inconsistency, clogged nozzles, or poor transfer results.
Software and Color Management
Look for a workflow that supports mirrored artwork, suitable color profiles, and the design software you already use. Good color management is especially important for business orders, where repeatable results matter more than a single successful print.
Bundle Contents and Workspace
A printer bundle may include transfer sheets and blanks, but accessories are not always identical across sellers. If a heat press is included, check its platen size, temperature controls, and available attachments. Allow ventilation and workspace for both printing and pressing.
Who Should Buy Which Sublimation Printer for T Shirts?
Choose a compact Epson or Brother option if you are learning sublimation, have limited space, or primarily make occasional shirts and gifts. A bundle with paper, blanks, and starter supplies is convenient when you want to begin immediately.
Choose a Sawgrass system if guided software, an established sublimation workflow, and ongoing project support are high priorities. For sellers producing regular orders, prioritize dependable supply access, consistent color, and a package that fits your existing press rather than paying for accessories you will not use.
Finally, consider a printer-and-press package if you are starting from zero. It can reduce compatibility guesswork, but compare the included press with dedicated models before committing. The best sublimation printer for t-shirts is the one that matches your garment materials, design size, production volume, and total operating budget.